As Monday begins teacher appreciation week in Hardeeville, a little more gratefulness is shown to those who are dedicated to making a difference in the education system.

“Being a teacher requires that you wear many different hats, not just delivering content,” Principal Rechel Anderson said. “In other words, you do whatever it takes to ensure that every child is represented, but with a level of excellence.”

Davis, a native of Orangeburg, decided to become a teacher at a young age. Appearing on a kid-show, “Mr. Knows it all” Davis was asked what she wanted to be when she grew up.

“All these kids were saying they wanted to be doctors or lawyers. When it was my turn, I said I wanted to be a teacher so I can teach all the children to be smart and become doctors and lawyers,” Davis said.

Davis attended Claflin University then received two masters from Lesley University in Cambridge and S.C. State in Orangeburg. Before moving to Pooler, she taught Head Start in Walterboro.

“I wouldn’t choose any other career, because I just love teaching. I love waking up early to see all my bright-eyed, smiling students,” Davis said.

For first-grade teacher Angie Mason, she has spent 10 years as a teacher. Originally from Ohio, she attended Urbana University with determination of becoming a teacher.

“I wanted to be a teacher since I was about 5 years old,” Mason said. “I loved all my teachers and I wanted to be just like them.”

Her greatest achievement as a teacher was her class receiving the highest state test scores. With two puppies, two turtles and some fish, Mason said she would’ve changed her profession to become a marine biologist.

As the elementary school celebrates the accomplishments and hard work of teachers, Anderson is thankful to have a dedicated staff. “It is important to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week because it is a time that highlights teachers and the role they play in education,” Anderson said. “It is also a time that expresses our gratitude for our educators and the work they do every day to enhance the lives of children.”

The school plans to provide the teachers with small gifts each day of the week with the help of the PTO. A special catered lunch will also be provided each day of the week.

Anderson has been the principal at Hardeeville Elementary for three years with experience as a teacher for many years.

“I appreciate the professionalism, sincerity and the desire to teach every child,” she said. “As a principal, it means a great deal to have dedicated individuals who are true to their calling and respect me as a professional educator as well.”

With a motto of “failure is not an option,” Anderson has encouraged her teachers to equip students with the ability to succeed.